Search
Close this search box.
Blog » Money Tips » Top 11 Performing Stocks Of Last 100 Years

Top 11 Performing Stocks Of Last 100 Years

image 1754429662.webp
image 1754429662.webp

Have you ever wondered about the top-ranking stocks of the last 100 years? I have. Here are 11 stocks that have shown strong performance over the last 100 years. The list highlights companies that have consistently delivered solid returns, maintained stable dividends, and influenced their industry segments over decades. The purpose is to provide an objective, data-backed evaluation to assist investors and enthusiasts in understanding long-term success factors. The criteria used to review these stocks include:

  • Historical Return Performance
  • Dividend Consistency
  • Market Impact
  • Longevity and Stability
  • Legacy and Innovation

Each company’s performance is measured against these points. The following sections include a detailed table followed by individual breakdowns for each of the 11 companies.

Top 11 Performing Stocks Of The Last 100 Years

Company Rating Historical Return Dividend Yield Market Impact Legacy
1 Coca-Cola 9.5 High Steady Global Iconic
2 IBM 9.2 High Consistent Pioneering Enduring
3 3M 9.0 Strong Reliable Innovative Resilient
4 Johnson & Johnson 9.3 Steady Reliable Influential Trusted
5 Procter & Gamble 9.1 Consistent Steady Wide-Reach Long-Lasting
6 General Electric 8.8 Variable Moderate Wide-Reach Historic
7 ExxonMobil 8.9 Strong Steady Global Legacy-Rich
8 Merck & Co. 8.7 Steady Reliable Influential Long-Term
9 AT&T 8.5 Steady Acceptable Wide-Reach Enduring
10 DuPont 8.4 Moderate Variable Historical Established
11 McDonald’s 8.3 Steady Reliable Expanding Popular

Coca-Cola

Screenshot of Coca-Cola homepage

Coca-Cola has shown strong performance over many decades. The company built its reputation on a consistent product and global advertising. Its brand is recognized worldwide. Investors have seen steady dividends and significant capital gains from its long history. The focus on quality and market presence remains clear, even during challenging economic times.

Historical Return: High
Dividend Yield: Steady
Market Impact: Global
Legacy: Iconic

Summary of Online Reviews
“Investors value its enduring brand strength,” with steady dividend payments often noted.

IBM

Screenshot of IBM homepage

IBM has a long history of innovation and steady performance. Its work in computer technology has provided strong support in various sectors. The company strikes a balance between research and reliable dividend payouts. Long-term investors appreciate its focus on stability and gradual growth. Its commitment to service and solutions has helped it remain relevant for over a century.

Historical Return: High
Dividend Yield: Consistent
Market Impact: Pioneering
Legacy: Enduring

Summary of Online Reviews
“A reliable partner in technology,” with steady innovation as a key theme.

3M

Screenshot of 3M homepage

3M is recognized for its diverse product offerings and consistent performance. The company has sustained a reputation built on quality and innovation. Its research and development lead to widely used consumer and industrial products. Financial returns have remained strong due to steady dividend payments. Investors find comfort in its ability to maintain market leadership.

Historical Return: Strong
Dividend Yield: Reliable
Market Impact: Innovative
Legacy: Resilient

Summary of Online Reviews
“Investors praise its consistent product innovation,” with steady dividends frequently highlighted.

Johnson & Johnson

Screenshot of Johnson & Johnson homepage

Johnson & Johnson has maintained a strong record with its healthcare and consumer products. The company’s market entry strategies and steady research investments have bolstered its performance over decades. Its balanced approach to growth and dividends offers consistent returns. This stock is respected for its stable business model and commitment to product quality.

Historical Return: Steady
Dividend Yield: Reliable
Market Impact: Influential
Legacy: Trusted

Summary of Online Reviews
“A mainstay in healthcare stocks,” with reliability often mentioned by analysts.

Procter & Gamble

Screenshot of Procter & Gamble homepage

Procter & Gamble has delivered steady returns with its wide range of consumer goods. The stock has shown durable performance with consistent dividend payments. Its focus on trusted household brands has ensured lasting customer loyalty. Investors appreciate the steady yield and the company’s long business history.

Historical Return: Consistent
Dividend Yield: Steady
Market Impact: Wide-Reach
Legacy: Long-Lasting

Summary of Online Reviews
“A stock known for its steady dividend tracks,” with lasting market presence, is cited frequently.

General Electric

General Electric has navigated many economic cycles with mixed outcomes. Its blend of industrial operations and technology segments offers a varied profile. Despite market challenges, the company holds a significant historical influence. Investors recognize its contributions to the industry, despite variations in returns over time. The brand is still recognized for its extensive history.

Historical Return: Variable
Dividend Yield: Moderate
Market Impact: Wide-Reach
Legacy: Historic

Summary of Online Reviews
“A historic name in industrial sectors,” with varying returns noted during reviews.

ExxonMobil

Screenshot of ExxonMobil homepage

ExxonMobil has consistently provided strong returns for investors over many decades. Its energy operations worldwide have supported a steady yield and market influence. The stock has weathered shifts in the energy market. Its long history and reliable dividend payments remain a point of comfort for many investors.

Historical Return: Strong
Dividend Yield: Steady
Market Impact: Global
Legacy: Legacy-Rich

Summary of Online Reviews
“Investors commend its consistent output in the energy sector,” with steady dividends highlighted.

Merck & Co.

Screenshot of Merck & Co. homepage

Merck & Co. has demonstrated steady performance, focusing on healthcare innovation. The company has maintained a solid dividend record and consistently developed new products. Its contributions to medical research and the development of medicines have provided consistent returns on investment. Long-term performance is supported by its commitment to quality healthcare solutions.

Historical Return: Steady
Dividend Yield: Reliable
Market Impact: Influential
Legacy: Long-Term

Summary of Online Reviews
“Recognized for its significant role in healthcare,” with reliable returns often mentioned.

AT&T

Screenshot of AT&T homepage

AT&T has a long history in telecommunications, with a consistent track record of investor appeal. The stock has managed to keep steady payouts through shifting market trends. Its broad network and service expansion have provided dependable results. The company’s strong market presence continues to attract long-term shareholders.

Historical Return: Steady
Dividend Yield: Acceptable
Market Impact: Wide-Reach
Legacy: Enduring

Summary of Online Reviews
“Investors recognize its steady operational model,” with broad connectivity. This remark is frequent.

DuPont

DuPont is known for its legacy in chemical manufacturing and materials science. The company has adapted its business over the decades to meet industry demands. Its stock performance reflects consistent progress with periodic adjustments in dividend payouts. The focus on research and market adaptation supports its steady reputation.

Historical Return: Moderate
Dividend Yield: Variable
Market Impact: Historical
Legacy: Established

Summary of Online Reviews
“Frequently noted for its adaptability in changing markets,” with variable returns mentioned.

McDonald’s

Screenshot of McDonald's homepage

McDonald’s has grown into a global brand with strong market performance. The company has demonstrated its strength by adapting to consumer trends. Its focus on consistent quality and efficient operations has led to steady earnings. Investors value the stock for its dependable dividends and global restaurant network.

Historical Return: Steady
Dividend Yield: Reliable
Market Impact: Expanding
Legacy: Popular

Summary of Online Reviews
“A favorite choice among investors for its consistent performance,” with global appeal as a common highlight.

Final Thoughts

The ranking highlights companies that have consistently delivered steady returns, reliable dividends, and a clear market impact over time. Investors may consider factors such as historical returns, dividend consistency, market influence, and overall legacy when reviewing these stocks. Each business exhibits strengths that continue to support long-term performance. Readers can use this evaluation to compare stocks and select options that suit their investment focus.

About Due’s Editorial Process

We uphold a strict editorial policy that focuses on factual accuracy, relevance, and impartiality. Our content, created by leading finance and industry experts, is reviewed by a team of seasoned editors to ensure compliance with the highest standards in reporting and publishing.

TAGS
CEO at Due
John Rampton is an entrepreneur and connector. When he was 23 years old, while attending the University of Utah, he was hurt in a construction accident. His leg was snapped in half. He was told by 13 doctors he would never walk again. Over the next 12 months, he had several surgeries, stem cell injections and learned how to walk again. During this time, he studied and mastered how to make money work for you, not against you. He has since taught thousands through books, courses and written over 5000 articles online about finance, entrepreneurship and productivity. He has been recognized as the Top Online Influencers in the World by Entrepreneur Magazine and Finance Expert by Time. He is the Founder and CEO of Due. Connect: [email protected]
About Due

Due makes it easier to retire on your terms. We give you a realistic view on exactly where you’re at financially so when you retire you know how much money you’ll get each month. Get started today.

Editorial Process

The team at Due includes a network of professional money managers, technological support, money experts, and staff writers who have written in the financial arena for years — and they know what they’re talking about. 

Categories

You might also like...

Due Fact-Checking Standards and Processes

To ensure we’re putting out the highest content standards, we sought out the help of certified financial experts and accredited individuals to verify our advice. We also rely on them for the most up to date information and data to make sure our in-depth research has the facts right, for today… Not yesterday. Our financial expert review board allows our readers to not only trust the information they are reading but to act on it as well. Most of our authors are CFP (Certified Financial Planners) or CRPC (Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor) certified and all have college degrees. Learn more about annuities, retirement advice and take the correct steps towards financial freedom and knowing exactly where you stand today. Learn everything about our top-notch financial expert reviews below… Learn More